Ernest

Schade

-Ernest R Schade, age 94, passed away peacefully on March 15, 2026 in Florida. Born on January 20, 1932, in Jamaica, Queens, NY, Ernest was the beloved son of Erika Degenhardt and Robert Schade. He met the love of his life, Dorothy "Dee" Elaine Kowell, while attending Andrew Jackson High School in Cambria Heights, Queens, NY. He was trying to catch up a grade while his soul mate was advancing a grade. The two became inseparable for the next 43 years. Ernest achieved many accomplishments, but two he was most proud of, was serving in the U.S. Navy during the Korean War and becoming a recipient of the Golden Gloves Boxing Champion. After the war, he focused on the art of salesmanship. He became one of the best salesman for Regal Shoe stores, then afterwards worked for several paper companies, where he also became one of the top salesman. He even sold garage door openers at night and partnered with his beloved father in law (the original Pop pop) selling Good Humor Ice Cream and everything in between just so he could support his family and give them a good life. He demonstrated his honesty and ambition through the many organizations he was active in, including (BSA Troop 244, Kiwanis, Lyons Club, and Elks), becoming a beloved pillar to all the communities he served. Ernest efforts to better himself culminated in what became his own retail business called K & S (Kowell & Schade) distributors selling gifts and stationary all through the NY and Long Island areas. Along the way, he met many clients, who became very dear friends. Eventually, his travels led him to the Pallottine Fathers Retreat House Gift Shop in Sag Harbor. Unbeknownst to him, This decision was integral to starting a career in real estate. During a time when interest rates were in excess of 18%, Ernest and his partner Dee decided to purchase F. Robertson Realty. Through their innovation, tenacity, and fortitude, they created a successful business which helped Sag Harbor, and their own lives, thrive. Shortly after acquiring their new realty business, he succeeded the title of President of (ESBOR) Eastern Suffolk Board of Realtors. Ernest's vivacious personality never went unnoticed. He made it a point to greet every person in every room he entered, always with a new joke he had been practicing the night before. A man of many talents, he also DJed at WLNG and WBAB, announced the Sag Harbor boat races,sold Christmas trees at the windmill, and deeply enjoyed giving historical tours of the local cemetery. Ernest is survived by his children; Deborah, Steven, Linda Marie, Michael, and his beloved daughter in law, Rosalie. He also has many grandchildren and great grandchildren, all of whom loved him deeply.